Vierstraete joins ‘elite group’
Dr. Sonya Vierstraete, chair of the School of Education at Southwest Minnesota State University, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Cathy Cowan Award for University and Community Service. The award recognizes employees whose impact extends beyond formal job responsibilities through sustained service, leadership, and community engagement.
Southwest Minnesota State University has named Dr. Sonya Vierstraete as the 2026 recipient of the Cathy Cowan Award for University and Community Service. The award honors employees whose impact extends beyond formal job responsibilities. Vierstraete is known for a student-first approach and behind-the-scenes leadership style, strengthening academic programs and deepening connections between SMSU and the communities it serves. She has been involved in various community activities, including serving on the Marshall Public Schools Advisory Committee and leading the Marshall Tiger football boosters. Vierstraete has also played a key role in building international experiences for teacher candidates, including partnerships with institutions in Mexico, Sweden, and Ireland. At the state and regional level, she serves on the SouthWest/West Central Service Cooperative Superintendents’ Executive Council and related advisory efforts.
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